Sacramento UPS Truck Accident Lawyer
Never face a legal battle alone. We’re here to join forces with you. Hear what attorney Jeremy has to say about trucking accidents.
We recognize the significance of the legal battles and are committed to ensuring the support and representation you need for a favourable settlement. Our Sacramento UPS truck accident lawyer knows the complexities of such cases and can help you get a successful outcome.
Table of Contents
Importance of hiring proven truck accident lawyer
- Medical expenses
- Long-term care
- Rehabilitation
- Loss of wages
- Loss of earning power
- Pain and suffering
We stand behind the principle that financial cost should not hinder your ability to attain experienced legal advocacy. It is our promise that you will not pay anything unless we win your case for you.
About UPS
UPS Truck accident statistics in California
- The statistics below underscore the importance of a Sacramento UPS truck accident attorney.
- California is one of the top 10 states in the United States for truck accidents. Fatal commercial vehicle accidents have increased by 42% over the last 10 years.
- In recent years, anywhere from 200 to 360 deaths have been attributed to truck accidents in California, not counting the thousands of non-fatal injuries that result from tractor-trailer crashes.
- According to the California Highway Patrol, 17 people were killed and 358 injured in truck accidents in recent years.
- California averages nearly 113 fatal truck crashes per year and nearly 3,000 truck accidents in the state result in injuries.
- Most California truck accidents occur on highways, such as I-5, I-10, and I-715, and a majority of truck accidents occur in Los Angeles County.
Trucking laws in California
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Any person operating a commercial truck on California roadways must obtain a CDL.
- Vehicle Equipment: All mechanical equipment, such as lights, windshields, and reflectors, must comply with the United States Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
- Load Securement: California complies with the load securement requirements in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Parts 393.100 to 393.136. Additionally, several California Code of Regulations regarding load securement are still current.
- Weight Limits: No vehicle in California may exceed 80,000 pounds, with no more than 20,000 pounds allowable for any single axle.
- AB5 Law: California’s Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) has codified a system for ensuring truck drivers and other “gig economy” workers are independent contractors/employees. This law has implications for the trucking industry and the classification of drivers.
- Drayage Truck Emissions: All drayage trucks over 26,000 pounds must have engines from 2010 or later. By 2035, California will require all drayage trucks to have zero emissions.
UPS driver regulations in Sacramento
- Speed Limits: In residential zones, UPS trucks are limited to 25 mph to ensure neighborhood safety.
- Parking Restrictions: UPS trucks cannot park in pedestrian zones or block crosswalks.
- Training Requirements: All UPS drivers in Sacramento must undergo rigorous training and pass specific tests before operating.
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Drivers must use ELDs to record their service hours, ensuring compliance with rest periods.
- Package Handling: Drivers must adhere to strict guide.
Causes of accidents of a UPS Truck
Below are listed some primary reasons behind UPS truck accidents.
Driver fatigue
One of the most common causes is driver fatigue. Long hours on the road, coupled with tight delivery schedules, can lead to exhausted drivers. Fatigued drivers have slowed reaction times and reduced decision-making abilities, making them prone to causing accidents.
Distracted driving
In our modern world, distractions are everywhere, and even seasoned UPS drivers aren’t immune. Whether glancing at a GPS, answering a call, or checking delivery details, these split-second distractions can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Mechanical failures
Like all vehicles, UPS trucks are susceptible to mechanical failures if not maintained adequately. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions can lead to uncontrollable situations, resulting in accidents.
Improper loading
How packages are loaded onto the truck is crucial to its stability. Overloading, or uneven weight distribution, can make the vehicle hard to control, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops.
Lack of training or experience
New or inadequately trained drivers might lack the expertise to navigate challenging road conditions or respond appropriately to emergencies. The lack of experience or training significantly contributes to UPS truck-related accidents.
Injuries from a UPS Truck accident
Accidents involving UPS trucks can be devastating due to their size and momentum. As a result, victims often suffer severe injuries. Understanding the possible injuries is crucial as these determine the medical treatment required and the potential legal compensation.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Impacts with large vehicles can often result in head trauma. TBIs can range from mild concussions to more severe brain damage. Symptoms might not manifest immediately, so one must seek medical attention after an accident.
Spinal cord injuries
The force from a UPS truck accident can damage the spinal cord. It can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering the victim’s quality of life.
Fractures and broken bones
The impact of such a collision can easily break bones. Victims might require surgeries, prolonged physical therapy, and extended recovery periods, depending on the severity. Internal injuries: Blunt trauma from a truck collision can cause internal bleeding or damage vital organs. These injuries are especially dangerous as they might not be immediately apparent.
Cuts and lacerations
Shattered glass, metal debris, and other materials can cause deep cuts or lacerations. Beyond immediate treatment, these injuries often leave scars that can be both physically and emotionally painful.
Burns
If a truck accident results in a fire, victims can suffer from first to third-degree burns, necessitating specialized medical care and potentially leading to permanent scarring.
Whiplash
A common injury in most vehicular accidents, whiplash occurs when the neck snaps back and forth rapidly. This can lead to chronic pain and reduced range of motion.
Emotional and psychological trauma
Beyond physical injuries, victims of UPS truck accidents often grapple with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other emotional traumas.
Who do I sue in a UPS Truck accident?
When involved in an accident with a UPS truck, the question of liability becomes paramount. The aftermath of such collisions often involves medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and more. Determining the parties to hold accountable is essential to ensure adequate compensation. Potential entities to consider include:
- UPS as an Entity: The company could be liable, mainly if its policies, training, or maintenance practices contributed to the accident.
- Truck Driver: If the driver’s negligence, fatigue, or distraction was a direct cause, they might be held responsible.
- Maintenance Providers: If the accident stemmed from a mechanical issue that was overlooked during a service check, the entity responsible for the truck’s maintenance might be held accountable.
- Manufacturer: In instances where a truck’s malfunction is due to a manufacturing defect, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts could be liable.
- Other Drivers: Sometimes, other drivers’ actions force the UPS driver into a situation that results in an accident. In such cases, these drivers could be held responsible.
Can I sue UPS?
Building a case for a commercial (UPS) Truck accident
Building a solid case following a commercial truck accident is crucial to ensure rightful compensation. The process requires meticulous planning, evidence collection, and an understanding of legal nuances.
- Accident Scene Documentation: Immediately after the accident, if possible, gather evidence. Take photos of the scene, damages, and any visible injuries. Collect witness contact details.
- Medical Records: Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Keep detailed medical records as they serve as crucial evidence of the trauma endured.
- Secure Truck’s Electronic Data: Modern trucks have electronic data recorders. It can be pivotal evidence as it details the truck’s activities before the crash.
- Driver’s Logs and Employment Details: Acquiring the driver’s log can reveal if they adhered to federal regulations regarding rest periods. Their employment details can show their training and history.
- Vehicle Maintenance Records: These records can identify if the accident was due to poor truck maintenance, holding the company or the maintenance provider accountable.
- Legal Consultation: Consulting with a Sacramento truck accident lawyer ensures you follow the correct legal procedures and strengthens your position during settlements or in court.
Who can be compensated for a UPS Truck accident?
At-fault party
Even if you are the at-fault party in a UPS truck accident, compensation might still be attainable. For instance, if both parties are partially responsible, California’s comparative fault laws allow for adjusted compensation. However, your claim might be reduced by the percentage of your fault. Consult with a Sacramento UPS truck accident attorney is crucial to understand your rights and potential avenues for compensation.
Not at-fault party
If you’re not at fault, you can seek full compensation for your damages. It includes medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Not-at-fault parties can pursue claims against the UPS driver, the company, or any other entity found negligent. A knowledgeable UPS truck accident attorney in Sacramento is invaluable in such situations. They help you receive the maximum compensation for the trauma endured.
Contact JG Winter Law for a truck accident case in Sacramento
Our Testimonials
Shyra Aranda
- Verified Client
I had the pleasure of working with Jeremy, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome of my case. From the very beginning, Jeremy was compassionate and understanding of my situation. He took the time to listen to my concerns and explain the legal process in a way that was easy for me to understand.
Erik Oh
- Verified Client
Jeremy’s knowledge and expertise quickly resolved all stress and pressure and concluded with the result we were looking for. He knows the law and knew my rights - I felt extremely confident in every step because he forecasted every potential scenario and the desired outcome with the steps to get there. He was phenomenal!
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